Durga Puja is knocking at the door, and preparations are in full swing for its celebration by the Hindu community of Bangladesh. To the Hindus residing in West Bengal and Bangladesh, this religious festival has special importance. However, this year’s celebrations come with new restrictions imposed by the interim government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus.
Under this, the temporary government has given new rules for the festival. The Hindu community of Bangladesh has been appealed to stop the activities during the time of Muslim prayers. In other words, they are not permitted to use musical instruments five minutes before azaan and during namaaz. The government keeps its hope alive by maintaining peace among different communities during the festival.
Lately, Bangladesh has been entangled in growing religious intolerance that has not spared the political tumult after the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The attacks against Hindus have brought worries among the minority communities. Many Hindus tried to flee the country from the threats. The interim government downplayed the attacks with Yunus describing them as “exaggerated.”.
Steps are being taken to ensure security for the Hindu community of Bangladesh. Home Affairs Advisor Lt Gen retd Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said the rules have been confirmed. Puja Committees also said they would abide by them. Besides, the government assures of stern action in case of any possible problem during Durga Puja.
Legal action to be taken against anybody disturbing Hindu community of Bangladesh during Durga Puja
This year, more puja mandaps would be allowed, numbering about 32,666 across the nation. It will provide day and night security to keep such sites safe. Religious Affairs Adviser Dr AFM Khalid Hossain said that legal action would be taken against the persons who bother the worshippers.
The order to stop playing music for the prayers was only to avert any potential problems. The administration wants these measures to ensure a peaceful Durga Puja.
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